Chicago Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual assault charges are among the most serious criminal charges because they carry with them a host of additional consequences beyond jail time and fines. Even the allegation of a sexual assault can severely impact your reputation. You can’t afford to hire just any attorney when your freedom and your future are on the line. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, we have the skill and experience to help you through this difficult situation. We know there are two sides to every story, and we make sure your side is heard.

An Overview of Sexual Assault Charges

In Illinois, sexual assault—referred to under state law as criminal sexual assault—is defined as engaging in sexual penetration with another person without their consent, or when the victim is unable to consent due to age, mental incapacity, or coercion. The law also considers it sexual assault when the act involves the use or threat of force, or when the accused holds a position of trust or authority over the victim, such as in cases involving educators or caregivers.

Criminal sexual assault is typically classified as a Class 1 felony, which carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of four years and a maximum of 15 years. However, aggravating factors—such as the use of a weapon, causing bodily harm, or committing the offense against a minor or someone with a disability—can lead to enhanced charges, including aggravated criminal sexual assault or predatory criminal sexual assault. These offenses may be charged as Class X felonies, which are the most serious class of felony in Illinois, punishable by six to 30 years in prison for a single count, with the possibility of life imprisonment in certain cases.

In addition to lengthy prison terms, those convicted of sexual assault in Illinois are required to register as sex offenders for life. This registration imposes significant restrictions on where a person can live, work, and travel. Failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements can result in additional felony charges. Given the high stakes, the social stigma, and the lifelong consequences, it is critical for anyone accused of sexual assault to seek immediate legal representation from a criminal defense attorney who understands how to navigate these complex and high-risk cases.

Aggressive, Accessible, Affordable Sexual Assault Defense

In Illinois, sexual assault cases are aggressively prosecuted. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel has a keen insight into how these cases are made and how to aggressively defend them. In every case, he seeks the best possible outcome with the understanding that any conviction will likely result in the defendant having to register as a sex offender. Sex offender status will negatively affect you for the rest of your life limiting where you can live, where you can work and a number of other restrictions.

Veteran Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel is experienced in handling all types of sexual assault cases including:

• Criminal Sexual Assault
• Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault
• Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault

We understand the gravity of these charges and we offer our clients constant accessibility throughout the legal process. When you have a question, we will be there to answer it. When you have a concern, we will be there to address it.

Contact a Cook County, IL Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer

If you or a family member has been charged with sexual assault, contact us to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Cook County, IL sexual assault defense attorney can fight to protect your rights in court. We are available 24/7 for meetings at jails, police stations, and detention centers, and we can represent you in bond or bail hearings. Our firm defends clients throughout Chicago and its surrounding cities.